Some types of epilepsy are inherited genetically i.e. they run-in families. Infectious diseases, such as meningitis, AIDS and viral encephalitis. Brain damage that occurs before birth due to infection in the mother; poor nutrition or oxygen deficiencies. Stroke is a leading cause of epilepsy in elderly population. In 50% of the Cases, the cause of epilepsy is not identifiable or unknown. In the other 50%, the Condition may be due to various factors.
FACTORS THAT TRIGGER EPILEPSY
The likelihood of having a seizure at some point may include the following reasons
Medication-related
- Missing medication
- Additional medications taken with anti-epileptic medication
Internal factors
- Stress, excitement and emotional status
- Lack of sleep
- Fever
- Menstrual cycle
External factors
- Alcohol and smoking
- Poor diet
- Very warm weather, hot baths or showers
- Television, videos and flashing lights
Knowing what triggers your seizures can help you recognize when a seizure may occur and help you be prepared.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF EPILEPSY?
The main symptom of epilepsy is repeated seizures. Seizures can affect people in different ways, depending on which part of the brain is involved. Some seizures cause the body to jerk and shake, while others cause problems like loss of awareness or unusual sensations. The common symptoms of epilepsy include
- Confusion
- Aura-An’aura’ is the term some people use to describe the warning they feel before they have a seizure
- Sudden falls
- Staring
- Uncontrollable Jerking movements
- Strange Sensations and emotions
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
Most of the time, a person with epilepsy will tend to have the same type of seizure each time, so the symptoms will be similar from episode to episode.
WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION?
If someone is having epileptic seizures, reach out to the nearest hospital or call an ambulance
- A seizure lasts for 5 minutes or longer.
- One seizure occurs right after another before the person regains the consciousness.
- Breathing becomes difficult or the person appears to be choking.
- The seizure occurs in water.
- Injury may have occurred.
- The person asks for medical help.
Dr.RAVIRAJ.GHORPADE
CONSULTANT BRAIN, SPINE & PERIPHERAL NERVE SURGEON
BHS LAKE VEIW HOSPITAL ,FORT ROAD,OPP KOTEKERE LAKE,GANDHINAGAR,BELGAUM
BELGAUM-10
Karnataka
INDIA
Cell-+91-9844769490
